MONTEREY &GT;&GT; An educational testing company in Ryan Ranch has been bought by Iowa City-based ACT.

Pacific Metrics Corp. is more than 14 years old and makes testing software, some for psychological measurement.

The Iowa City company is best known for the test, called ACT, taken for college admissions. It also produces workforce development products.

ACT declined to say what it paid for the business, which it said will remain a separate, stand-alone company.

It plans no staffing changes, said ACT spokesman Ed Colby.

Pacific Metrics moved from Cannery Row to Ryan Ranch for more office space in 2012.

CEO and founder of Pacific Metrics, Howard C. Mitzel, died in January.

Mitzel, who had a doctorate in cognitive psychology, had worked for CTB McGraw-Hill before co-developing Bookmark and forming Pacific Metrics, according to his obituary.

"We are thrilled to be joining ACT, a nationally respected organization that is leading the way in improving college and career readiness across the country," said Bob Guerin, president of Pacific Metrics, in a press release. "Our talented team and our innovative systems will truly complement the work that ACT is doing, and ACT's backing and guidance will enable Pacific Metrics to increase our own reach and impact."

Pacific Metrics employs 80 people and has an additional office in Denver. Fifty people work out of Ryan Ranch.

ACT will continue to lease the building at 1 Lower Ragsdale Drive.

"Pacific Metrics is known for its industry leadership and innovation, and we are extremely excited to welcome it to the ACT family," said Jon Whitmore, ACT chief executive officer, in a press release.